During pregnancy a woman’s skin changes due to hormonal fluctuations. For some women pregnancy causes a beautiful glow due primarily to increased circulation, but for others, their skin becomes discolored and dry. These hormonal changes result in extra-dryness, pregnancy acne and stretch marks. In addition to all the changes brought on by hormones, other factors also play an important role in skincare during pregnancy. The two most common issues are: what kinds of skincare products are safe to use during pregnancy, and will you be able to tolerate the scents.

Sun protection is particularly important during pregnancy as your skin tends to be more sensitive. Using a sunscreen of at least SPF15 is necessary as well as keeping out of the sun when it’s hottest. Additionally, some pregnant women develop what is known as pregnancy mask, a darkening of the skin around the nose, mouth and forehead which can become worse when exposed to sunlight.

The bane of many pregnant women is extra dry skin, accompanied by stretch marks. This calls for extra moisturizing to alleviate the dryness and the accompanying itch. While moisturizing cream will help with the dry skin, some kind of anti-itch lotion is sometimes necessary to alleviate the itch; ask your doctor for advice.

For those expectant mothers who find their skin becoming oilier, still use a moisturizer but choose one that is water-based. While there is no treatment it is believed that keeping the skin moisturized, especially with cocoa butter helps minimize the development of stretch marks.

Other must do skincare routines during pregnancy are:

·           Clean your face properly at least twice daily; this will help to keep pores unclogged and help with acne. However, do not use regular acne medication during pregnancy

·           Avoid using soaps which will remove oils and make the skin even drier

·           Because skin is more sensitive it is advisable to use products labelled as being noncomedogenic

·           Pay attention to your feet, especially if you have gestational diabetes

·           Drink adequate amounts of water

·           Avoid taking long baths as these will just make dry skin even drier

·           Get your rest, sleep helps your skin restore itself

So while it is important to maintain your skincare routine during pregnancy, do ensure that you are using products that will not harm the developing foetus.

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